Savannah Guthrie’s mother’s case takes disturbing turn as ransom note details emerge

The case surrounding Nancy Guthrie, mother of Today anchor Savannah Guthrie, has escalated sharply as investigators examine reports of a ransom demand and physical evidence suggesting she may have been abducted from her Arizona residence.

Nancy, 84, was reported missing after failing to attend a church service on Sunday. When police entered her Catalina Hills home, they discovered blood spatters near the front entrance and found that part of a Ring doorbell camera had been removed.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the blood belongs to Nancy, but officials say the findings have intensified concerns about her safety.

Ransom note claims deepen concern

Reports first published by TMZ claim a ransom note demanding millions of dollars in cryptocurrency was sent to the family. Law enforcement has confirmed that the note is being treated seriously and is now part of an active investigation involving the FBI.

Former NYPD hostage negotiator Wallace Zeins said the circumstances strongly suggest that more than one person may be involved.

“Given her age and health, it would have been extremely difficult for her to leave on her own,” Zeins said. “The logistics point to multiple actors.”

Investigators are now assessing whether the ransom message was handwritten or digitally produced, a distinction that could provide crucial forensic leads.

Health and timing raise alarm

Nancy Guthrie, who reportedly requires critical medication every 24 hours, was last seen Saturday evening after dining with her daughter Annie Guthrie. She returned home at around 9:30 pm and was not heard from again.

Family members grew alarmed the next morning when she failed to answer calls or messages. During a search of the property, police located her Apple Watch inside the home. A law enforcement source later said her pacemaker stopped syncing with the device at approximately 2 am on Sunday.

Missing camera and federal involvement

Investigators also confirmed that part of Nancy’s Ring doorbell system was missing, further fuelling concerns that the disappearance may have involved planning rather than coincidence.

Federal agents have since visited the home of Savannah Guthrie’s sister as the inquiry expands. Authorities maintain that there is no confirmed evidence the incident was targeted, but acknowledge that the evolving details have widened the scope of the investigation.

Press conference expected as family waits

President Donald Trump has said federal assistance will be provided if needed and confirmed he intends to contact Savannah Guthrie directly.

Police are expected to address the public as new information emerges, including the reported ransom demand and surveillance gaps.

Nancy Guthrie remains missing. Officials say all tips are being reviewed as they work to determine whether this was a calculated abduction or a crime of opportunity.

The investigation is ongoing.